Hiking in Seattle, WA

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About Seattle Hiking

The leather boots and North Face jackets that flood Seattle’s streets aren’t just worn in the name of fashion; saying that people in this town are fond of hiking is the definition of understatement. Fortunately for those of us who enjoy taking to the trails, there are nearly limitless options of quality hikes within easy access from the city.

The I-90 Corridor, which runs through the Cascades and then over them via Snoqualmie Pass, is home to some of the most enjoyable day hikes from Seattle, including Mount Si: the most popular hiking destination in the entire state. Tagging Si’s summit is a right of passage for many of the area’s residents. If you’re looking for something a little quieter, there are plenty of possibilities a bit further afield, too. Mount Townsend, on the Olympic Peninsula, is often compared to Mount Si in terms of difficulty and scenic appeal, but it is less crowded.

Views of precipitous slopes, deep jungled forests, and a cascading river delight both novice and experienced hiker alike along the North Skokomish River Trail. With a variety of options for either day hikes or long backpacking excursions there is something to be found for everyone seeking to explore the Olympics all with the convenience of being only a few hours drive from Seattle.

A tranquil alpine lake coupled with a densely green old growth forest, Lena Lake is an appealing hike for those looking for a splendid swimming hole or a chance to camp and trek further into the surrounding Olympic valleys.

Difficulty

2 of 5 diamonds

From Downtown

38.3 miles

Duration

Most of your time on the trail will be spent on the switchbacks making elevation from the trailhead. Be sure to set aside a couple hours to enjoy Lena Lake, and on a sizzling day a dip in the lake is a sublime experience.

The hike to the Big Four Ice Caves is an easy, family-friendly, 2.2 mile round trip that leads through some interesting and scenic terrain before reaching the unique, hollowed out snow structures for which this destination is named.

From the fundamentals, like highest and most prominent, to the obscure little tidbits and other random stuff in between, here’s a brief breakdown of some of America’s best mountains (for one reason or another).

The Trump Administration has ordered an unprecedented "review" of dozens of U.S. National Monuments, seeking to roll back federal protection for existing public lands. Here's why that would be a tragic and short-sighted decision.